A beautifully decorated Christmas tree is often the focal point of your home’s holiday décor. As gorgeous as your tree and the decorations that adorn it are, it’s critical that they don’t create a Christmas tree fire. According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), an average of 200 home fires were caused by Christmas trees every year between 2011 and 2015, resulting in an average of 14.8 million dollars in direct property damage annually.
To keep yourself, your home, and your loved ones safe this holiday season, use these tips from the fire restoration experts at ServiceMaster Remediation Services.
ServiceMaster Remediation Services is here to extend a helping hand after fire damage in Pompano Beach, FL, and nearby areas. For emergency restoration, call us at (954) 969-5906 or message us online.
Table of Contents
How To Prevent Christmas Tree Fires
- Pick a fresh tree
- Cut about two inches from the base
- Keep the tree away from heat sources
- Keep the tree away from exits
- Water daily
If you prefer decorating your home with an artificial Christmas tree, only purchase one that has been certified and labeled by an independent testing laboratory. If you like the look, smell, and appearance of a live tree, there are a few preventative steps you should take. Use these tips to reduce your risk of a Christmas tree fire hazard:
- When choosing a tree, pick one with fresh, green needles that do not fall off when touched.
- Cut about two inches from the base of the trunk before putting the tree in its stand.
- Always keep the tree at least three feet away from any heat source, including candles, heat vents, lights, radiators, and fireplaces.
- Make sure the tree is not blocking any exits.
- Add water to the tree stand daily to help prevent your Christmas tree from getting too dry.
How To Safely Use Lights On Your Christmas Tree
Tree lights add ambiance and a bit of magic to your home. However, Christmas tree lights can start a fire if not inspected or used properly. In fact, the NFPA states that electrical distribution or lighting equipment, including decorative lights, wiring, cords, and plugs, were involved in 40 percent of home Christmas tree fires between 2011 and 2015. To help ensure that your Christmas tree lights do not cause any fires, follow these tips:
- Only use lights that have been tested for indoor use by an independent recognized testing laboratory.
- Do not use lights intended for outdoor use on your Christmas tree.
- Replace any string of lights with worn or broken cords, or with loose bulb connections.
- Read the manufacturer’s instructions to learn how many light strands can be safely connected.
- Check all strands for cracks, frays, and damage before use.
- Do not overload outlets or power strips with Christmas lights and decorations.
- Only use flame-retardant and flame-resistant lights and decorations on your tree.
- Turn off your Christmas tree lights before leaving home or going to bed.
With these tips, you can help prevent your gorgeous, festive holiday decorations from causing significant harm and destruction.
If Your Christmas Tree Catches Fire...
- Evacuate immediately. Leave the house and call 911 from a safe location.
- Use an extinguisher (if safe). If the fire is small, use a fire extinguisher aimed at the base of the fire.
- Cut power (if safe). Disconnect electricity to any decorations by unplugging them or shutting off the power at the breaker.
- Do not use water. Water can conduct electricity; do not use it on electrical fires.
- Close doors behind you. Help contain the fire by closing doors as you exit.
- Stay out. Once outside, do not re-enter the house for any reason.
After the fire department clears your home, contact your insurance company and consider professional fire damage restoration services. Always prioritize safety and ensure you have a fire extinguisher and smoke detectors in your home.
FAQ About Fire Damage Restoration
Because there are many variables and many services involved in fire and smoke damage restoration, it is difficult to predict exactly how long the complete restoration will take. Consult with your ServiceMaster Remediation Services technician at (954) 969-5906 on the estimated dates and phases of your restoration project.
At ServiceMaster Remediation Services, occupant and worker safety is a top priority. During the initial inspection, safety hazards are identified and addressed, including debris removal, air quality, electrical hazards, slip and trip hazards, etc. Burnt electrical cords and appliances are separated for disposal, and questionable electrical appliances are unplugged and tagged for evaluation of safe operation. Electrical power may be turned off and kept off until evaluation by a licensed electrician.
ServiceMaster Remediation Services recommends you make a list of items (including food items) deemed nonrestorable. Make a copy for your insurance company and keep one for yourself.
This is ultimately your decision. Some things you may want to consider include safety concerns, odors, electricity, equipment noise, etc. If vacating your premises for any length of time, consider the following: forward your mail to your temporary residence; stop newspaper and other deliveries; notify utility company, cable company, etc., of temporary suspension of services.
Call the Most Trusted Pompano Beach, FL's Fire Damage Restoration Company
If, despite your best efforts, an accident does occur, there’s no need to panic. The professionals at ServiceMaster Remediation Services are available 24/7 every day of the year to help guide you through crisis to resolution. With you as our priority, we work as fast as possible to get your home back to normal so you can get back to enjoying the holiday season with your loved ones.
ServiceMaster Remediation Services‘ team will assist you every step of the way. From board-up services to content cleaning, soot, smoke and odor elimination, and water damage, we are experienced in every facet of property restoration
Our technicians are experienced, sensitive, and reliable in working with you to restore peace of mind at this difficult time. The team will address your needs, keep you informed, and work with your insurance company directly.
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Call ServiceMaster Remediation Services at (954) 969-5906 for emergency response, or message us online to request an estimate.
